Can ST. John's Wart be dangerous ?

Question

Looking for something natural to help me relax.

Answer 1

No I dont think its dangerous but you do have to be carefull with some herbal products.I find using a little yoga helps me relax ummmm lol. Sometimes drinking camoile tea is also relaxing or a small glass of wine only one. Good luck

Answer 2

The first recorded use of Hypericum for medicinal purposes dates back to ancient Greece, and has been used ever since. The herb was also used by Native Americans internally as an abortifacient and externally as an anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antiseptic. The aerial parts of the plant can be cut and dried for later use in the form of herbal tea, which has long been enjoyed both for its pleasant (though somewhat bitter) taste and for its medicinal properties.

In modern medicine, standardized Hypericum extract (obtained from H. perforatum) is commonly used as a treatment for depression and anxiety disorders. In homeopathy, Hypericum is used in the treatment of numerous medical problems, yet the rate of success has not been adequately documented, as is very often the case in homeopathy. Historically, the flowers and stems of St John's wort have also been used to produce red and yellow dye.

St John's wort is today most widely known as a herbal treatment for depression. In some countries, such as Germany, Hypericum is prescribed for mild depression far more commonly than synthetic antidepressant medication [verification needed]. In most countries, standardized extracts are available over the counter – usually in tablet or capsule form, and also in teabags and tinctures.

Answer 3

Anything is dangerous if taken in large enough quantities, even water. I had to go to the ER because I got a toxic reaction. I don't remember how much I took. Try Yoga for relaxation. There is probably a TV program in your area.

Answer 4

Do not take it if yoi are on immunosuppressive drugs. A lady heart transplant recipient began to trjrct her new heart as a side effect of taking St. Johns wort. It had inactivated the cyclosporin a drug she was taking to prevent rejection.
Dan.

Answer 5

Ive known a few people who have tried it, but they never stayed on it for long....possibley because they didnt wait 4-6 weeks to get the full effect and gave up and went to a doctor etc

the link below has the risks/side effects

Answer 6

No its natural...my brother was helped by it when severely depressed... for relaxing try melatonin or herbal teas without caffeine

Answer 7

It has been known to cause sun sensitivity with large amounts of the extract. I think chamomile or passion flower is better.

Answer 8

of other things it does hold a bleeding potential, good luck